By Shibata Zeshin (1807-1891), Meiji PeriodOne side of light, unstained wood, lacquered in grey and silver relief with the crescent moon among swirling clouds, the other side of roiro lacquer, with falling maple leaves in a shower of rain rendered in gold togidashi, signed Zeshin.
8.2cm (3¼in).

The subtle and unobtrusive composition is not only an extremely refined example of the art of 'shibui' but also a testament to the remarkable artistic and technical prowess of its maker. Originally a Muromachi period term, this is a typically Japanese concept with nuances of meaning which defy precise translation. In a sense shibui is the notion of the artist's ability to convey, in a most perceptive and elegant manner and by great economy of means, the essence of what he wishes to depict and it is aptly demonstrated on the inro presented here by Zeshin.

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